Bruce Dickinson, former member of the band Iron Maiden announced that he aims to create 1,000 jobs at a ‘centre of excellence’ in South Wales.
The singer said that his new company, Cardiff Aviation, will aim to provide specialist aviation support services that include training and aircraft maintenance to clients such as Boeing. Mr Dickinson said that he had invested £1m in the company, and is hoping to take on the first 50 to 60 staff in July.
Mr Dickinson said in a press statement: “We’d expect to create up to 1,000 jobs within 18 months, based on the level of interest and commitment from aircraft manufacturers and operators.”
“We’re coming into this enterprise with the knowledge that we’ll also be bringing business to South Wales. [The region] has long had an association with the aircraft industry and I am delighted that I am able to play a small part in the continuation of that tradition,” he said.
Welsh Business Minister Edwina Hart was also pleased with the investment in the region: “This is exactly the type of investment needed – bringing money into the local economy while also providing an international promotion for St Athan Aerospace Business Park and the Aviation Enterprise Zone.”
“We have a strong dynamic aerospace sector in Wales and this investment will build upon the skilled workforce that already exists in the area, providing a range of career opportunities,” she added.
